In 2009, Shapiro and PhD student Tom Ran created a prototype molecular system capable of simple logical deductions using DNA strands.
This system represented the first molecular-scale implementation of a simple programming language, demonstrating potential for precise targeting and treatment of specific cell types by performing millions of calculations simultaneously.
Shapiro and Ran also developed a genetic device operating within bacterial cells to identify transcription factors and produce visible markers or therapeutic proteins.
In 2009, Shapiro and PhD student Tom Ran presented the prototype of an autonomous programmable molecular system, based on the manipulation of DNA strands, which is capable of performing simple logical deductions.
Introduced into the body, this system has immense potential to accurately target specific cell types and administer the appropriate treatment, as it can perform millions of calculations at the same time and ‘think’ logically.
Prof Shapiro’s team aims to make these computers perform highly complex actions and answer complicated questions, following a logical model first proposed by Aristotle over 2000 years ago.
If the results match pre-programmed parameters, it responds by creating a protein that emits a green light—supplying a visible sign of a "positive" diagnosis.